63 Grants, Loans and Programs to Benefit Your Small Business

Whether you’re starting a new small business or looking to grow the one you already own, finding funding can be a challenge for businesses of all sizes. If you’re looking for a small business loan or grant, CO— is here to help.

Each week, we update this list of loans, small business grants, or other opportunities to connect with programs and organizations that can help you with your business. Come back often to see the latest. And, if your organization has a program or grant you’d like to see listed here, email us at CO@uschamber.com.

If you’re not sure of the difference between a loan and a grant, check out our explainer here. You can also learn more about all funding options in our small business financing guide here.

Government grants

Begin your search for a grant from the federal government at Grants.gov. This government site offers the most comprehensive database of funds the government is going to give away. There are thousands of grants to apply for, with opportunities for companies from all backgrounds.

Keep in mind that not all assistance flows directly from the federal government to small businesses. Some funds are distributed to state and local governments and agencies, nonprofit organizations, and institutions of higher learning. These entities, in turn, distribute the funds or use them to provide technical or educational assistance on a local level.

In addition to the programs listed here, be sure to check with your state and local governments and use the resources listed below. When searching through grant and contracting options, note that you may qualify for more than one program.

As illustrated by the following sampling of grants, the assistance available to you from the government will vary, depending on your specific situation.

• Employee Retention Credit. The Employee Retention Credit (ERC), sometimes called the Employee Retention Tax Credit, is a stimulus program established by the CARES Act. This refundable tax credit functions as a grant that helps businesses impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligibility guidelines are available on the IRS website.
  
• Illinois Infrastructure Grants. In 2020, Governor Pritzker launched an initiative to improve Illinois' infrastructure. $3 billion of this was allocated for capital grants through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). These capital grants, part of Illinois' $45 billion infrastructure initiative, are designed to support various projects that benefit local communities and businesses. The DCEO maintains a transparent list of these grants, which can be either general or specific project grants. You can find more information about these grants on the GATA website.
  
• The Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program (ELP). ELP is an initiative aimed at supporting the growth of Minnesota businesses owned by minorities, low-income individuals, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities. The program provides grant funds to nonprofit lenders across the state, which in turn offer loans to startup and expanding businesses. These loans not only foster business development but also aim to create jobs for minority and low-income individuals, strengthen minority-owned enterprises, and boost economic growth in disadvantaged areas. To participate in the program, eligible businesses must apply through certified nonprofit lenders, with DEED assisting in lender identification if needed, and loans are subject to DEED's approval.
  
• National Institute of Health Grants. The National Institute of Health (NIH) is currently funding grant opportunities related to COVID-19 research. These grants are reserved for small businesses that develop and research biomedical technology. There are multiple grants available with deadlines throughout 2024 and beyond.
  
• NIDILRR's SBIR program. The SBIR program aims to support organizations to help advance technology and research, as well as support the social/economic benefits for the nation. The SBIR will be backing the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) through the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to provide 10 grants that support the improvement of the lives of those with disabilities. The total grant funding is estimated to be $1 million, and an outline of the available grants under this program can be found on the ACL website.
  
• San Francisco Accessibility Grant. Small business owners in San Francisco can apply for a grant to enhance accessibility in their establishments. The grant can cover expenses like accessible equipment, construction to remove ADA barriers, CASp inspections, design services, and relevant permit fees, with a maximum grant amount of $10,000. Eligible businesses must be registered in San Francisco, have less than $2.5 million in gross revenue for a single location, and employ an average of 100 or fewer employees. The application process is fast, and applicants can expect a response within 15 days of submission. Upon approval, they will need to provide proof of payment and photos showcasing accessibility improvements.
  
• Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). The SBIR offers grants to small businesses so they can participate in federal research and development with the potential for commercialization. It’s a highly competitive awards-based program that helps businesses achieve scientific excellence and technological innovation. To qualify for SBIR grants, you must operate a for-profit company and satisfy other requirements.
• Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR). Similar to SBIR, the STTR program focuses on funding research in the R&D arena. However, what separates the STTR is the requirement that the small business has a formal collaboration with a research institution. To qualify for STTR grants, you must operate a for-profit company and satisfy other requirements.
• Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF). The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) offers "deal-closing" grants to companies competing with out-of-state sites for new projects in Texas. These grants are based on performance, encouraging significant capital investment and job creation. Eligible companies must meet criteria related to job creation, capital investment, financial stability, and local support. Once approved, grantees sign contracts committing to job and wage targets, with clawback provisions in case of non-compliance. The application process includes a thorough screening, and unanimous support from top state officials is required for approval.
  
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Business Programs. The USDA’s Rural Development Business Programs provide financial support and technical assistance to promote rural business growth. They offer loans, grants, and guarantees with the goal of enhancing economic opportunities and job creation in rural communities; deadlines and eligibility requirements vary by program.
  
• U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). Targeted grants and loans designed to aid minority-owned businesses are offered throughout the year. Minority-owned businesses can find information about local MBDA Business Centers at MBDA.gov.
• U.S. Department of Education Grants. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has various grants available to small businesses in the education sector. Each grant has unique eligibility criteria, with some opportunities set aside for public schools, state agencies, or nonprofit organizations; however, others allow applications from for-profit private sector companies. Deadlines for currently available DOE grants run through March 6, 2025, with more grant opportunities coming soon.
• U.S. Small Business Administration State Trade Expansion Program (STEP). Intended to assist small businesses desiring to export product, this program distributes federal funds through state entities. Small businesses that meet the criteria set by each state can use the financial assistance to participate in foreign trade missions and shows, obtain entry to foreign markets, develop websites, and design international marketing products or campaigns.
• U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The EDA is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce and offers ongoing funding opportunities for projects that support regional and national economic development. Applicants can apply for a variety of rolling-basis EDA investments that fund projects in construction, non-construction, planning, technical assistance, research and evaluation, higher education, and more.

As you would expect, acceptance of free money from the government comes with a fair amount of paperwork. Applying for a grant can be time-consuming and technical. You want to make sure, therefore, that you are eligible before applying. In addition to the legal and administrative prerequisites, there are ongoing reporting and auditing requirements.

Government contract assistance

The federal government spends billions of dollars on goods and services each year. A lot of that money is spent through a competitive bidding process. Programs have been put in place to assist some small businesses with the process, allowing them a better chance to compete for those federal dollars.

• Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program. The federal government seeks to award at least 3% of all federal contracting dollars to veteran-owned businesses annually, so this program helps with meeting that target. This federal contracting program offers assistance to small business owners who are service-disabled veterans. Eligible small businesses must be over 50% owned/controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans, have day-to-day operations and long-term goals managed by at least one service-disabled veteran and have a service-connected disability.
• Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program. The federal government seeks to award at least 5% of federal contracting dollars to women-owned small businesses annually. Through this SBA program, the Office of Women’s Business Ownership provides support to women entrepreneurs by offering business training, counseling, federal contracts and access to credit and capital. Their goal is to offer equal opportunities for all women in business.
• 8(a) Business Development Program. The purpose of this program is to assist small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged entities. This is achieved by limiting competition for certain government contracts to businesses participating in the 8(a) business development program. To participate a business must be certified as an 8(a) entity.
• HUBZone Program. This program aids businesses in underutilized business zones by making them more competitive in regard to some government contracts. Businesses that join the HUBZone program can compete for set-aside contracts as well as receive preference on others, including a 10% price evaluation preference in open contract competitions.

Natural Resource Sales Assistance Program

In addition to the billions of dollars spent purchasing goods and services, the federal government also sells large amounts of natural resources and surplus property. The SBA Natural Resource Sales Assistance Program sets aside a percentage of these goods for bidding by small businesses only. In addition, federal agencies sometimes divide surplus materials into smaller parcels, making it easier for small businesses to purchase. The five categories are:

• Timber and related forest products.
• Strategic materials.
• Royalty oil.
• Leases involving rights to minerals, coil, oil and gas.
• Surplus real and personal property.

The program also provides training for small businesses on government sales and leasing.

General small business grants

There are many nonprofit and corporate entities offering grants and other assistance to small businesses. Here are a few such programs that are open to qualifying small businesses in any industry:

• 2024 Year-End Skip $10,000 Grant. Small business aggregator Skip is helping entrepreneurs end the year on a strong note with its 2024 Year-End Skip $10,000 Grant. The grant is designed to help recipients achieve their goals, whether personal or professional, by providing a meaningful financial boost. This funding opportunity is open to everyone, with no restrictive eligibility criteria. Applicants must submit their entries by December 31, 2024.
• 500 Global Flagship Accelerator Program. Startups and small businesses seeking funding can do so on a rolling, year-round basis with the 500 Global Flagship Accelerator program. Since 2010, this program has offered businesses the opportunity for a four-month accelerator program based in San Francisco in addition to a $150,000 investment. Rules for applying can be found on the company's website.
  
• Awesome Foundation Grants. Each month, the Awesome Foundation awards grants of $1,000 to individuals and groups looking to fund various projects. The Awesome Foundation is made of 84 independently-run chapters, with members contributing to a micro-funding pool that goes towards grant projects. Though funding is not limited to businesses, startups, and small businesses have been among the recipients of the monthly grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• Brooklyn Brewery $10K Grant. Brooklyn Brewery is awarding $10,000 grants to celebrate individuals who embody Brooklyn’s creative, entrepreneurial spirit and help bring their visions to life. Five innovators will be awarded across categories including Food & Drink Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Arts, Music, and Activism. Winners will also receive a one-on-one session with their category’s judge and a trip to New York City for an awards ceremony, and have their work featured on Brooklyn Brewery's platforms in 2025. Applications are open until December 31, 2024; applicants must be 21 or older and either U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
• Change It Up Fall Grant. Honeycomb Credit’s $5,000 Change It Up Fall Grant supports small business owners ready to take bold steps in growing or improving their businesses. Whether you’re launching a new product, upgrading equipment, or renovating your space, this grant offers a financial boost to help make it happen. Eligible applicants must own a small business and apply by December 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. One winner will be announced by January 2, 2025, and will receive the funds via check or Visa gift card.
• The Freed Fellowship Grant. U.S.-based small business owners can apply for a monthly $500 grant from The Freed Fellowship. Applicants are evaluated based on the 5C Framework, which assesses various aspects of applicants’ business. Along with the grant, applicants receive feedback on their business and a two-month free membership in the Freed Studio, a community of ambitious business owners. Grant recipients are also eligible for an end-of-year grant of $2,500.
• GoFundMe Small Business Relief Fund. GoFundMe’s Small Business Relief Fund will match $500 grants to qualifying small businesses that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and raise at least $500 through a GoFundMe campaign. The fund is backed by GoFundMe and corporations like Intuit QuickBooks, Yelp, GoDaddy, and Bill.com. Small business owners with existing campaigns can add the hashtag #SmallBusinessRelief to their campaign and fill out this form to confirm their business.
  
• Hustler’s Microgrant. The Hustler's MicroGrant offers $1,000 in funding to support passionate entrepreneurs in their small business ventures. Presented by Deja Vu Parker of WBLS and HerSuiteSpot, this grant provides financial assistance and resources to promising small businesses across the United States, helping them grow their operations. Applications are accepted monthly, and eligible small business owners are encouraged to apply.
• Pitch Perfect Grant. The Pitch Perfect Grant, a collaboration between Pink Print, Ellie Talks Money, and Skip, is offering a $5,000 grant to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Open to individuals aged 18 and older in the U.S. or Canada with an active business, this grant aims to support and scale businesses to reach important financial goals. Applicants must submit their applications by December 30, 2024, for a chance to be among five finalists selected to pitch live in January.
• Saltbox Make Ship Happen Grant. The Saltbox Make Ship Happen Grant is offering $5,000 to small business owners to ease the challenges of managing operations during the holidays. This grant supports entrepreneurs by providing funding to improve logistics, fulfillment, and overall efficiency during peak season. To qualify, applicants must create an Instagram Reel showcasing their business operations using the hashtag #ShipHappenswithSaltbox and follow and tag @JoinSaltbox on Instagram. Applications are due by December 22, 2024.
• Secretsos™ Small Business Grant. The Secretsos™ Small Business Grant offers $2,500 to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and accelerate growth. To apply, business owners must be 21 or older and operate in eligible US states, excluding Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, New York, and Rhode Island. Applications are due by December 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., CST, and the selected recipient will have full discretion on how to use the funds to support their business.
• Skip Monthly Grants. Skip offers monthly grants for U.S.-based small business owners and entrepreneurs; grants are typically set at $1,000, though the exact amount varies by Skip’s monthly YouTube revenue. To be considered, you must have a Skip account and add the monthly grant to your Funding Assistant, as well as be subscribed to Skip’s YouTube channel. Deadlines for the next round of grant applications are expected to be announced soon.
  
• Skip Instant Grants. Skip offers Instant Grants on a rolling basis, providing funding opportunities with shorter turnaround windows. These grants are announced a couple of days in advance and generally occur twice a month. Applicants are required to participate in Skip’s YouTube livestream during the selection process. Learn more about these ongoing funding opportunities by following Skip on social media.
• Small Business Digital Readiness Program. In partnership with Verizon, National ACE has developed a digital readiness program to help small business owners succeed in a digital world. The free online curriculum includes expert coaching, peer networking, and other resources to support your small business. Those who register for the program and take two courses are eligible for a $10,000 grant. This opportunity is rolling and you can learn more at the program’s webpage.
• Small Business Readiness for Resiliency Program. Small businesses often feel the effects of a natural disaster the hardest. It can be difficult when starting a business to suddenly have to raise money to repair a roof or attend to flood damage. To help offset some of these concerns and costs, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and FedEx have teamed up to create the Small Business Readiness for Resiliency (R4R) Program. The program helps small businesses put plans in place to prepare for disaster and also provides immediate emergency funding when necessary. Businesses are asked to complete a four-step process to be eligible for funding opportunities.
  
• Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant. The Start.Pivot.Grow. Micro Grant provides $2,500 in non-dilutive funding to small businesses for essential expenses like rent, inventory, or marketing. Open to U.S.-based, for-profit companies with at least two years of operation, eligible applicants must generate $50,000+ annually and have no more than two employees, including the owner. Winners will also receive a Digital Business Growth Planner and Prep My Loan Planner to support their development. Grants are awarded quarterly, with applications accepted on a rolling basis.
• Walmart Spark Good Local Grants. Organizations can apply for the Walmart Spark Good Local Grants program provided by Walmart and Sam’s Club, which offers grants ranging from $250 to $5,000 to address the unique needs of local communities. Tax ID status determines eligibility, with 501(c)(3) charities, public entities, and educational institutions qualifying. Grant applications are accepted quarterly, with the current round open through December 31, 2024. All organizations must be Deed verified and have a Spark Good account to apply.

Industry-specific and diversity small business grants and programs

Some small business grant programs are confined to a specific entrepreneur demographic or business profile and they often have an application process that is easier to navigate. This is a sample list, so be sure to check with nonprofits and large corporations in your geographic area or industry.

• 2024 Black Girl Ventures Pitch Program. The 2024 Black Girl Ventures Pitch Program is designed to support Black and Brown entrepreneurs from Los Angeles, Chicago, and NYC by offering coaching, a live crowdfunded pitch competition, and networking opportunities. To qualify, applicants must be revenue-generating, in good standing, and located in the city for which they are applying. The remaining application deadlines are October 9 for NYC applicants and November 6 for Los Angeles applicants. Winners will receive cash prizes ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, as well as access to the BGV Connect Incubator and a new network of business owners and investors.
  
• Accion Opportunity Fund. The Accion Opportunity Fund grants small business loans ranging from $5,000-$250,000, along with educational resources, coaching, and support networks in both English and Spanish. This program offers mentorship programs, microloans, and a hubzone program for small business owners’ financial needs. Accion Opportunity Fund works with a clientele that is 90% diverse, has created and retained over 50,000 jobs, and has generated $1 billion in economic activity. Those interested in applying for a loan can do so here.
  
• Amazon’s Black Business Accelerator Program. If you're a seller in Amazon's store, you may be eligible for the Black Business Accelerator Program. Created to support Black entrepreneurs, the program offers financial support, mentorship, business advice, and promotional support. Eligible sellers will have access to free imaging services, cash grant opportunities, advertising credits, and money toward start-up costs. You can learn more about this opportunity at their website.
  
• Amazon Business Small Business Grant Program. Amazon Business’s third annual Small Business Grant Program is set to award over $250,000 this year to eligible U.S.-based small businesses. There will be one grand prize winner who will receive $25,000, along with four $20,000 finalists and 10 $15,000 semi-finalists. Grant recipients will also walk away with one year of free Business Prime membership, Amazon devices, and Amazon Basics products. Current Amazon Business customers with an annual revenue of $1 million or less are eligible to apply; applications are due on May 24, 2024, with winners announced on July 22, 2024.
• Amber Grant Foundation. With a simple goal of supporting women entrepreneurs, the Amber Grant Foundation was founded by WomensNet in 1998. The foundation awards a series of grants throughout the year, including the $10,000 Monthly Amber Grant, two $25,000 Annual Amber Grants, and $10,000 each quarter for The Startup Grant and The Non-Profit Grant, respectively. There are also 12 Business Category Grants — an additional $10,000 each month — with all eligible applications remaining active until the month of their specific category.
• America’s Seed Fund. America’s Seed Fund, sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), offers up to $2 million for U.S.-based startups and small businesses that are developing innovative technology. Project pitches are accepted on a rolling basis, and official responses from NSF typically take one month.
• Backstage Capital. Backstage Capital supports underrepresented founders by investing in startups led by women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. They focus primarily on U.S.-based, scalable businesses with the potential for high growth. Investments typically range from $100,000 and up, predominantly targeting early-stage companies. Applications are reviewed regularly and feedback is provided to those not selected with encouragement to reapply in the future.
• The Big Idea Grant. The Big Idea Grant by Yippity Doo offers ambitious women entrepreneurs $1,000 to support their business ventures, along with access to mentorship, resources, and a wealth mindset coaching group. To qualify, applicants must identify as women entrepreneurs with a clear vision for their business. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with one recipient selected each month.
• Binc Foundation Emergency Financial Assistance. The Binc Foundation provides emergency financial assistance to bookstore owners, booksellers, and comic store employees and owners facing unforeseen financial needs. Eligibility criteria include specific employment durations and financial hardship resulting from qualifying life events. Binc's assistance process involves a confidential application and documentation verification, aiming to help individuals regain financial stability.
  
• BIPOC Small Business Accelerator. The BIPOC Small Business Accelerator by PeopleFund supports underserved entrepreneurs in Texas through capital, education, and mentorship. Program participants will receive a grant between $3,000 and $5,000, along with resources such as LivePlan software, expedited loan support, and ongoing mentorship. Participants must complete an orientation, virtual training sessions, and business assignments to qualify for these benefits, and the program is limited to the first 70 eligible applicants. Applications for the Q1 2025 cohort are open until January 3, 2025, for Texas-based start-ups and existing businesses in or serving low- to moderate-income communities.
  
• Boundless Futures Foundation. The Boundless Futures Foundation awards grants to U.S.-based female entrepreneurs and nonprofits that support female entrepreneurship. The EmpowHer Grant offers entrepreneurs up to $25,000, with funds provided as reimbursements for business expenses upon proof of payment. Nonprofits that support female entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, or financing can request up to $30,000 in grant funding through the Her Village Grant. Applications for the EmpowHer Grant are accepted quarterly, while the Her Village Grant follows a biannual cycle, with details on the next round to be announced soon.
• Carhartt For the Love of Labor Grant. Carhartt, a popular workwear distributor, created the Love of Labor grant program to help connect workers with trade programs in their local communities during an unprecedented labor shortage. Awards will be distributed on a rolling basis to “like-minded organizations” that are dedicated to the education, training, and placement of workers into trade jobs. Organizations with interest in the program can apply by reaching out to Carhartt directly. Nominations are accepted as well.
• Casper Accelerate Grant Program. The Casper Association aims to support the adoption of blockchain technology via Casper, a scalable blockchain network. To support innovation within the blockchain industry, Casper has opened the Casper Accelerate Grant Program. Those who want to build apps to support infrastructure, end-user applications, and research innovation are invited to apply. This $25 million grant program has a rolling application deadline, so you can apply anytime here.
  
• Child Care Business Opportunity Fund. The Child Care Business Opportunity Fund, offered by the Women's Business Development Council (WBDC) in partnership with the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood, offers grants of up to $25,000 to support child care businesses in Connecticut. These grants are designed to help both licensed and aspiring businesses at different stages, whether they're just starting or ready to expand. Eligibility differs based on each grant offering; applications for new funding opportunities will open soon.
• DoorDash Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund. The DoorDash Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund offers $10,000 grants to help restaurants recover from natural disasters, severe weather, or major infrastructure failures. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based restaurants, gastropubs, or bakeries with brick-and-mortar locations that have experienced revenue loss due to a declared disaster within the past 12 months. To qualify, businesses must have no more than three locations, have been in operation for at least six months, employ fewer than 50 people at each location, and generate less than $3 million in annual revenue per location. Applications are accepted quarterly, with the current round open through March 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. ET.
• Etsy Emergency Relief Fund. If you’re an Etsy business owner, you may be qualified to apply for relief funding courtesy of a partnership with CERF+, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping artists prepare for and recover from emergencies and disasters. The partnership was established in 2017, and both companies continue to provide up to $2,500 in funding through the grant program. To apply, you must have been a registered Etsy business for at least one year and have been affected by a natural disaster. This grant opportunity is rolling.
• Foundation for a Just Society Grants. Foundation for a Just Society offers grants to local, national, regional, and global organizations and networks that support the rights of women, girls, and LGBTQI individuals. Grants are issued four times each year (March, June, September, and November), with invitations for proposals extended two months prior.
• Galaxy Grants. Galaxy Grants is on a mission to support women and minority entrepreneurs with their small businesses by offering valuable resources, tools, funding, and knowledge. They are running a $1,500 Galaxy Grant Giveaway, sponsored by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) organization, with a quick 30-second entry process. The deadline to enter is December 31, 2024, and winners will be announced the following week. Plus, there's an opportunity to win for both you and a friend, as each of you could receive a $1,500 grant if your friend wins, subject to the Terms and Conditions.
• HerRise MicroGrant. The HerRise MicroGrant offers financial aid to U.S.-registered businesses that are majority-owned by women of color, with a focus on businesses with innovative community solutions that are still struggling to obtain funding. Applications are reviewed monthly, with winners announced during the subsequent month's HerSuiteSpot First Friday Mixer. Nonprofits, franchises, direct sellers, authorized resellers, and independent consultants are ineligible to apply.
• Hivers and Strivers Investment Program. As an angel investment group, Hivers and Strivers works to provide capital to qualifying businesses. Specifically, the investment group funds projects submitted by veteran-owned and veteran-led businesses. Funding opportunities can range from $250,000 to $1 million. Those who qualify can apply for funding for a business idea on a rolling basis, but businesses reliant on government contracts are not eligible to apply.
  
• IFundWomen Universal Grant Application. This is a resource for female entrepreneurs seeking grants. Through partnerships with brands like Visa, Caress, and Comcast, IFundWomen has deployed over $170 million in grants to entrepreneurs. Applicants gain priority access to funding opportunities and resources within the IFundWomen community.
• #MomsMeanBusiness. ZenBusiness, a company that helps others launch and run their own businesses, has created the #MomsMeanBusiness campaign to recognize the resilience of moms and celebrate their accomplishments. To help mothers take the first step toward entrepreneurship, ZenBusiness is covering business formation costs and will help entrepreneurs form an LCC, track expenses, secure a business name, and more. All mothers are eligible and costs will be covered for “every mom in America.” The program is rolling and you can sign up here.
• National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) Growth Grants. According to its website, the NASE has distributed over $1,000,000 in grants to its members. Its growth grants provide up to $4,000 to assist with training, marketing, and more. You must be a member for 90 days before you are eligible to apply.
  
• Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation. The Olga Loizon Memorial Foundation offers grants of up to $10,000 to aspiring women entrepreneurs in Michigan who embody the passion and vision of Olga Loizon, the founder of metro Detroit's Olga's Kitchen. Applicants must have a business located in Michigan and demonstrate financial need through a personal statement; a formal business plan is also required. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• Patagonia Corporate Grant Program. Patagonia’s corporate grant program offers between $10,000 and $20,000 of funding to nonprofits with missions to protect and preserve the environment. Though grants are awarded by invitation only, Patagonia accepts recommendations for organizations that meet program criteria.
  
• Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program. Watson Institute’s Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship Training Program is a 16-week initiative designed to empower underserved U.S.-based entrepreneurs working in agriculture or creating value-added agricultural products. The program runs from March 10 to June 30, 2025, providing participants up to $1,000 for retail readiness certifications, leadership and venture scaling guidance, and access to a network of mentors and peers. Eligible applicants must be impact-driven entrepreneurs with proven products and revenue in the "missing middle" stage, working in areas with high wealth inequality. Priority applications are due by January 26, 2025, with additional applications considered on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.
• RTC Women in Tech Fund. Rewriting The Code (RTC) works to support college and early-career women in tech by providing them with opportunities to help disrupt gender and racial inequality in the industry. The RTC Women in Tech Fund provides financial resources to women enrolled in undergraduate tech programs to help cover costs that may be an obstacle to education. There are three different grants available depending on each applicant’s specific financial needs. All applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
  
• StartOut Scholarship Program. StartOut offers scholarship opportunities to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who wish to participate in their Founder Program and become a Giving Member. The initiative provides a 12-month membership for those LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who have been underrepresented, underserved, and underestimated within their community.
• Supplier Innovative Finance Program. The Empire State Development’s Supplier Innovative Finance Program offers up to $5,000 in unrestricted grants to help socially and economically disadvantaged businesses (SEDI) in New York grow and access capital. In addition to funding, businesses can access educational resources designed to help founders improve their funding readiness and connect them with funders in matchmaking sessions. To be eligible, companies must be headquartered in New York with annual revenues between $250,000 and $10 million and certified as minority, women, veteran, or LGBTQ+ owned. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• The Wish Local Empowerment Program. This program brought to you by the e-commerce brand, Wish, assists Black-owned small businesses by dedicating a $2 million fund to support approximately 4,000 Wish Local partners. Recipients can receive financial assistance ranging from $500 to $2000, with flexibility in fund allocation. Eligible businesses must meet criteria such as having a Black-owned business with 20 or fewer employees and an average annual revenue under $1 million. Successful applicants will also join Wish Local, gaining access to its consumer base through various partnership opportunities.

Additional resources

The programs listed above are a good start when it comes to grants and funding. You may find additional resources available by following the links below.

• Agricultural Justice Project (AJP), a program offering free resources and guidance for owners of farms and food businesses.
• Challenge.Gov, part of the General Services Administration's Technology Transformation Services, aids federal agencies in utilizing prize competitions and crowdsourcing to advance their goals. Hosting over 1,300 challenges since 2010, Challenge.Gov facilitated 105 in 2021 alone, totaling a prize pool of over $60 million alongside non-monetary rewards.
• Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, a government agency that offers financial support to certified lenders serving low-income communities. The CDFI is broken up into several different program areas, including Native Initiatives that provide training and assistance to Native communities, and the Capital Housing Fund that delivers affordable housing for low-income communities.
• Fearless Fund, a venture capital firm that actively invests in businesses led by women of color across the United States. Concentrating on early-stage investments in various industries, the fund looks for companies at the Pre-seed, Seed, or Series A financing stages, offering up to $3 million in exchange for a minimum equity stake of 10%.
• Funding options for Black-owned businesses, including venture capital firms and programs offering financing to Black entrepreneurs.
• Funding options for LGBTQ+-owned businesses, including resource networks and organizations that offer grants to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and those from other underrepresented backgrounds.
• Funding options for Hispanic-owned businesses, including funding sources and organizations aimed at supporting Latinx and Hispanic entrepreneurs.
• Funding options for minority-owned businesses, including multiple grants, funding sources, and low-cost loans that are intended to help minority-owned businesses grow.
• Funding options for veteran-owned businesses, from government-backed programs to pitch competitions and business accelerators.
• Funding options for women-owned businesses, including ten programs, agencies and organizations that are helping women entrepreneurs be better represented in the ranks of American business owners.
• GrantsForWomen.org, an online directory that provides a comprehensive database of grants for women globally, along with valuable advice on securing grants and information on relevant events and workshops for female business owners. The grants featured in the directory are sourced from reputable organizations, foundations, and venture capital funds, covering both nonprofit organizations and for-profit businesses.
• Resources and funding opportunities for AAPI-owned businesses, including accelerator programs, grants for AAPI entrepreneurs, and networking groups.
• SBA Small Business Development Centers, which can help companies of all kinds locate additional funding opportunities at the national and local level.
• SCORE, which can assign a volunteer business mentor who can provide guidance on numerous topics, including funding and operations.
• Tory Burch Foundation Funding Finder, a tool for founders that provides personalized funding recommendations and resources based on their responses to a few questions about their business financials and aspirations.
• Warrior Rising, a national organization designed to turn Veterans (and their immediate families) into “vetrepreneurs” through business opportunities in the form of mentorship, funding, education, and training. Since its inception in 2015, the program has supported over 26,000 Veterans — more than 5,400 so far in 2024 alone — and helped 21 Veteran-run businesses achieve a $1 million valuation.

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